Social and economic implications of divorce  

 Social Implications

divorce  has social consequences that extend beyond the couple to affect families, communities, and society. The failure of a marriage often leads to a ripple effect that transforms social relationships and societal dynamics (Amato, 2010).

a. Impact on family dynamics

Marital dissolution reshapes fam­ily roles and responsibilities, often resulting in conflicts among family members. Studies indicate that chil­dren often feel torn between parents, leading to strained parent-child rela­tionships (Lansford, 2009). In Ghana, studies have shown that children in divorced families are more prone to behavioural issues, often feeling unsupported and confused (Abane, 2011). Additionally, research sug­gests that parental divorce can lead to long-term emotional instability in children—affecting their ability to form secure attachments and causing relational difficulties that may last well into adulthood (Fagan & Chur­chill, 2012).

b. Community disruption

When marriages break down, com­munities experience a weakening of social ties. People who are divorced and their children may feel alienated or stigmatised, and thereby become more withdrawn. In the USA, a report by the Institute for Family Studies (Wilcox et al. [2020]) reveals that community-level marriage dissolution correlates with lower community engagement and weaker social bonds. This can contribute to a reduction in collective cohesion, support networks, and social integration—affecting the quality of community life and overall societal well-being (Harkonen, 2014).

c. Children’s social develop­ment

Children of divorced parents commonly struggle with issues such as insecurity, trust, and difficulty building relationships. According to a study conducted in the UK, children belonging to divorcees are 33 per cent more likely to experience anxiety and social withdrawal than those in stable two-parent families (Office for Nation­al Statistics, 2021). Similarly, Nige­rian studies show that children from divorced families mostly struggle with peer relationships, academic perfor­mance, and self-esteem (Olowodu­noye & Ogungbamila, 2013). These social challenges can have lasting impacts, including increased risks of academic and occupational hurdles in adulthood.

Economic Implications

The economic costs of divorce are both immediate and long-term. They impact individuals and families, and on a larger scale, can influence the economic health of entire societies (Wagner & Weiss, 2006).

a. Financial strain

People’s financial stability can suffer greatly due to divorce. One or both spouses may struggle to cover basic expenses and maintain their pre-divorce lifestyle. Studies from the USA show that, on average, divorce can shrink household income by 15-40 per cent due to legal fees, asset divi­sion, and shifts in living arrangements (Amato, 2014). In Ghana, research suggests that divorced women, in par­ticular, face financial hardship, with many relying on extended family sup­port (Osei-Hwedie & Mwansa, 2007). Moreover, divorce in Nigeria sub­stantially changes financial security, especially for women who lack legal protection for property or financial rights (Isiugo-Abanihe, 2005).

b. Impact on career and pro­ductivity

Marriage dissolution can alter work productivity and career growth. A study conducted by the United Kingdom’s Marriage Foundation (2019) revealed that individuals undergoing divorce tend to encounter a tempo­rary drop in work performance, with a reported 20 per cent increase in sick days among recently divorced employees. Career disruption not only influences personal financial stability but can also minimise overall work­force efficiency, with consequences for national economic output (Vignoli et al., 2018).

c. Economic burden on society

The economic consequence of divorce extends beyond the individu­als involved, placing a financial strain on public resources. A report from the Institute of Economic Affairs (2016) found that family breakdown costs the UK economy approximately £48 billion annually in welfare and support programmes, with similar patterns ob­served in the USA (Thomas & Sawhill, 2002). Divorce-related economic challenges normally require govern­ment intervention in the form of so­cial welfare, housing assistance, and other public benefits, making family dysfunction an economic burden on society (Vignoli et al., 2018).

To be continued …

Source: Excerpts from ‘Preparing for a Happy and Fulfilling Marriage’ Book by REV. COUNSELOR PRINCE OFFEI (Psychotherapist, Lecturer, and Marriage Therapist). https:// counselorprinceass.wixsite.com/ edu-counseling-psych

https://princeoffei22.wixsite. com/website-psychologist

https://princeoffei22.wixsite. com/website

COUNSELOR PRINCE & ASSOCI­ATES CONSULT (CPAC COUNSELLOR TRAINING INSTITUTE)